Emily had desperately tried to revive her father by using compressions on his chest after he collapsed in his car which was parked on the Aston Social Club car park. But he was later pronounced dead at hospital.

Fans had carried out a 71st minute round of applause in memory of the 71-year-old retired chef from Lincoln during the club’s 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace on New Year’s Day.

Emily went along to the game with mother Mandy, sister Kelly, brother-in-law Craig Overton and her nephew eight-year-old Riley Overton.

She said: “Paul Lambert was really lovely. He said he was very sorry and offered his condolences to myself and my family. It was lovely to meet him and it was special that he had personally invited myself and members of my family.”

After the game Emily met the players and had her picture taken with match winner Christian Benteke who scored the only goal in a 1-0 win.

The players signed a shirt for Emily and midfielder Ashley Westwood gave her his number 15 shirt.

She added: “It was an absolutely incredible day and the staff at Aston Villa made myself and my family very welcome. It has been such a tough time over Christmas but the kindness the club has shown me as well as the Villa supporters has just been incredible and has helped me to get through this difficult time.

I would like to say a big thank you to them all.”

Aston Villa also plan to honour Birmingham-born Brian, a Villa fan for more than 60 years, at a memorial service later this season.